Despite the new waves of idols and continuously evolving trends, two names continue to drive the global wave of Hallyu, BTS and Blackpink. Based on the data of the Korean wavy survey abroad of 2025, these two groups remain the most loved K-Pop acts in Asia, West, Middle East and Africa.
BTS: still the global number n. 1
For the fifth consecutive year, BTS held the first place as the most favorite Korean artist. Only in 2024, BTS was the favorite K-pop group for 24.6% of global interviewees, with particularly strong numbers from:
- United States (34.2%)
- Europe (28.7%)
- Middle East (20.5%)
- Africa (26.5%)
Even without complete group activities due to military enrollments, the group’s influence remains unparalleled, supported by solo projects, Fandom Legacy and cultural meaning.
Blackpink: Global impact queens
Following closely, Blackpink ranked second globally with the preference of 12.3%. They are particularly popular in:
- Asia and Pacific (16.2%)
- Europe (9.1%)
- United States (9.6%)
With each member who has successful solo initiatives, Blackpink continues to dominate both music and fashion industries. Their double presence on graphs and slopes strengthens their iconic global image.
Other growing acts
The data also show coherent love for:
- IU – particularly popular in Asia and among the oldest demographic data, with global support of 3.1%.
- Stray Kids & Psych – gaining constant momentum, in particular in Europe and in the Middle East.
- Twice: maintenance of a solid base, still in the ranking among the top 5 globally.
Netizen reactions
The ranking quickly became viral on the Korean CEREAN forum, where the Netizen flooded the comments with honors, calling BTS and Blackpink “undeniable legends” and “K-pop pride”.
CNG comments:
- Now BTS and Blackpink have gone beyond being k-pop idols, they have become true artists.
- Even if people try to break them down, your favorites could never match their career ã… ã…
- At this point, they don’t even feel more idols, more as international artists of another country.
- It seems that BTS and Blackpink will continue to block the first 1 and 2 points for a long time to come.
- Another…
Another year, another reminder that BTS and Blackpink are not just guiding the K-Pop scene: they have completely transcended the category. With an unknown global influence, an unparalleled legacy and a loyalty of the fans who cover the continents, these two groups of central have consolidated their status not only as a cultural icons of South Korea, but as permanent fixtures in the global panorama of music and entertainment.
